Michael Martin is stepping down as Senior Vice President of Programming and Head of Music Initiatives at Audacy, concluding a 17-year tenure spanning CBS Radio, Entercom and Audacy.
Martin said he will exit the role effective May 1, signaling a transition to what he described as “the next phase” of his career.
“I’ve made the decision to step down… and begin the next phase of my career,” Martin wrote in a memo. “Throughout my career, I’ve had the chance to build and evolve programming platforms, develop meaningful artist partnerships, and create large scale events that connect brands with audiences in real, measurable ways.”
Martin has been a central figure in shaping Audacy’s music strategy, particularly in forging relationships with artists, labels and managers while driving both on-air and experiential programming initiatives.
“At the core, I’ve always focused on building brands, developing talent, and creating moments that actually cut through,” he added. “That’s exactly what I plan to keep doing moving forward.”
In a separate note to staff, Audacy Chief Programming Officer Jeff Sottolano highlighted Martin’s long tenure and influence across multiple iterations of the company.
“After 17 distinguished years with CBS Radio, Entercom and Audacy, Michael Martin is stepping down,” Sottolano wrote.
Martin joined CBS Radio in 2009 following a stint at Clear Channel Communications, where he oversaw major Bay Area stations including hot AC “Alice 97.3” KLLC, CHR “99.7 Now” KMVQ and adult hits “105.3 Dave-FM” KITS in San Francisco. He was elevated in 2014 to the newly created SVP role, where he led the company’s music industry partnerships and collaborated closely with format vice presidents and brand managers. Martin recently stepped down from his Brand Manager role at KLLC. He previously worked at Clear Channel Los Angeles holding programming roles at KIIS and KYSR, with oversight in San Francisco.
Sottolano credited Martin with helping to drive some of the company’s signature initiatives, including the annual “We Can Survive” concert franchise, which has featured top-tier artists such as Taylor Swift, The Weeknd, Ariana Grande and Coldplay.
He also oversaw the company’s artist development efforts, including the “LAUNCH” program, which has supported emerging acts such as Alex Warren and Jelly Roll.
“Michael’s creativity and competitiveness have been a tremendous asset to Audacy,” Sottolano said. “We will sorely miss him as we wish him well in the next chapter of his career.”
Martin will remain with the company through May 1 to assist with the transition, as Audacy works with its programming and events leadership teams to ensure continuity across its music initiatives and partnerships.
Closing his memo, Martin struck a personal tone reflecting his connection to the industry.
“Music is how I breathe,” he wrote. “Thank you for supplying the oxygen.”